What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 17:17? From Benjamin • With the northern kingdom largely apostate, the tribe of Benjamin remained attached to Judah (1 Kings 12:21). Their presence in Jehoshaphat’s army shows covenant faithfulness enduring within a remnant—just as Deuteronomy 33:12 calls Benjamin “the beloved of the Lord” who “dwells in security by Him.” • The Chronicler highlights this loyalty to reassure readers that God can preserve an obedient core even in turbulent times (cf. 2 Chronicles 17:2–3). Eliada • One specific leader is singled out: “Eliada.” Naming him underlines that God works through identifiable, flesh-and-blood servants, not anonymous forces (cf. 1 Chronicles 12:1-2, where individual Benjamite archers rally to David). • Other men named Eliada appear among David’s sons (1 Chronicles 3:8), linking the name to royal service. Jehoshaphat’s commander stands in that same tradition of loyalty to the house of David. a mighty man of valor • Scripture attaches this title to heroes such as Gideon (Judges 6:12) and David’s elite (2 Samuel 23:8). It means proven courage and seasoned skill—qualities God honors and uses. • Valor in the Old Testament is never raw bravado; it flows from confident trust in the Lord of hosts (Psalm 18:32-34). Jehoshaphat’s reforms had turned the nation back to God (2 Chronicles 17:3-6), and Eliada’s valor is a fruit of that renewal. and with him 200,000 armed with bows and shields • The size of the contingent—“200,000”—is recorded as literal history, displaying the material blessing God granted when Judah sought Him (2 Chronicles 17:10-13). • Their weapons matter: – Bows give long-range capability; Benjamites were famously skilled archers (1 Chronicles 8:40). – Shields provide close-quarters defense, pairing offense with protection (cf. 2 Chronicles 14:8, where earlier Benjamites bore the same gear under King Asa). • The combination signals balanced preparedness: God’s people trust Him fully yet also marshal every legitimate resource He provides (Nehemiah 4:17-18). summary 2 Chronicles 17:17 records that the tribe of Benjamin sent Eliada—a courageous, God-fearing commander—leading 200,000 well-equipped soldiers to support King Jehoshaphat. The verse testifies that when a nation turns to the Lord, He supplies loyal allies, capable leaders, and abundant strength to accomplish His purposes. |
    |